Washington, DC – Today marks the official first day of Clif Porter's tenure as President and CEO of the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL). The transition comes after the July
announcement of Porter being tapped to assume the position following Mark Parkinson's retirement. Parkinson led the organization for 14 years.
“I am excited and ready," said Porter, who previously served as head of the Government Relations department at AHCA/NCAL for more than a decade. “Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, these past few weeks have been trying for our profession, but they've also been inspiring. Heroic caregivers are working day in and day out to continue to protect and care for their residents, and the entire profession has rallied around them to show our support. It's a humbling reminder of the importance of what we do and the power of staying united. I begin this new role emboldened by the dedication of our caregivers and resolute in helping our entire profession move forward together."
As President and CEO, Porter aims to advance AHCA/NCAL's mission of improving lives by delivering solutions for quality care through a common-sense policy agenda and commitment to quality. Among the association's priorities is working with Congress and the Administration on more productive workforce solutions, given the nation's growing caregiver shortage. The lack of nurses, nurse aides, and other workers is forcing many facilities to limit admissions or close altogether, creating an
access to care crisis.
“Preparing for our aging population should be our collective, primary focus. We will continue to urge policymakers to prioritize and invest in long term care residents and their caregivers," Porter said. “With the proper support, the future is bright for our nation's seniors and those who serve them."
Since he was announced as the incoming President & CEO, Porter's history of leadership and advocacy within the profession has been highlighted by
Skilled Nursing News and
McKnight's Long Term Care News, among other outlets. He was also named a
Top Lobbyist by The Hill in 2023 and received the
Industry Ally award through the McKnight's Pinnacle Awards in 2024. Porter has worked in the long term care profession for more than 35 years, starting out as a nursing home administrator.